Erik Hopfinger resurfaces at Long Bar

Erik Hopfinger and Reza Esmaili are joining forces at Long Bar, for now. Photos: The Chronicle

Still probably most recognized for his time at Circa and on Top Chef, Erik Hopfinger was last seen around these parts leaving Waterfront Restaurant back in June. As noted in this morning paper, starting today, he’ll be a regular face on Fillmore Street’s evolving Long Bar.

Former bar star Reza Esmailitook over Long Bar a few months ago, and now he’s brought Hopfinger on to bring some street cred to the food program. For now, Hopfinger’s role is more of a “menu implementer” The pair will readdress the position in a few months. He’s starting to tweak the food dish by dish, adding “fresh, light, and local” plates. Hopfinger is also ramping up a brunch menu with items like his “Eggs in a Basket” dish”: poached egg in brioche with truffle hollandaise.

It’s also important to note that Esmaili’s original plan is still intact: he still intends to completely overhaul Long Bar in late October. At that point, he’ll unveil a new concept, new name, new cocktail menu, new look — the works. In other words, the place now is in a transitional period, and per Esmaili, is not representative of what it will be.